Share Article

Chagrin Falls based luxury accessories designers taps new executive.

Past News Releases

Rebecca Ray Designs today announced that the company’s Board of Directors has appointed Monica Edwards, formerly of Churchill Downs, Vera Bradley and Drexel Heritage as Chief Marketing Officer and President effective immediately.

In its search for a new President, the Board and Founder Rebecca Smith sought a candidate who could build on Rebecca Ray’s growing awareness in the fashion industry and accelerate its fast-growing luxury accessories business.

“We had very specific criteria for our new president, and we were very strategic about finding the right person -- Monica is that person,” said Rebecca Smith, Rebecca Ray’s founder, President and Chief Creative Officer. “No one better understands the intersection of fashion and branding, which she clearly demonstrated while at Vera Bradley. She has a recognized ability to set strategy, lead teams and drive growth and innovation. She is also a natural cultural fit with Rebecca Ray. This is an exciting development for our company.”

In addition to senior positions at Churchill Downs, Drexel Heritage and Saks Fifth Avenue, Edwards served as Vice President of Marketing for Vera Bradley from 2006-2012, during which time the company launched its branded store program, first national advertising campaign and e-commerce platform, in addition to undergoing an initial public offering. She oversaw marketing, communications and branding during a period of the most accelerated growth that the company has seen.

“It is a great privilege to be asked to lead Rebecca Ray at a time when the company is positioned for tremendous development,” said Edwards. “It’s a very special brand that is able to create couture quality fashion accessories domestically. Consumers and retailers not only appreciate the quality and beauty of the products, they also appreciate that they are artfully bench-made in the US. In addition, Rebecca and the team have been able to share an authentic lifestyle through the designs – one that celebrates an elegant equestrian aesthetic. I look forward to joining this team to build on Rebecca Ray’s success for years to come.”

ABOUT REBECCA RAY DESIGNS
Based in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, Rebecca Ray Designs is a wholesale and retail company specializing in handbags, accessories, tabletop and home décor. Rebecca Ray products are proudly handmade in the United States, through the use of authentic equestrian hardware, responsibly tanned leather, traditional handwork, and the finest quality fabrics, Rebecca Ray Designs reflects the spirit of the Sporting Lifestyle: nostalgic, modern and timeless.